Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won India’s first gold medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow. She won the women’s 48 kg weightlifting event on Sunday, 26 July 2026. Notably, it was her third straight Commonwealth Games gold. Clearly, she remains one of India’s most consistent champions.
A Hat-Trick of Commonwealth Golds
Mirabai has now won gold at three Commonwealth Games in a row:
- 2018, Gold Coast: Gold in the 48 kg category
- 2022, Birmingham: Gold in the 49 kg category
- 2026, Glasgow: Gold in the 48 kg category
Thus, she has dominated her weight class across eight years.
About Mirabai Chanu
Saikhom Mirabai Chanu comes from Manipur. She won silver at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, held in 2021. In fact, it was India’s first medal at those Games. Also, she won the World Championship gold in 2017. Furthermore, she has received the Padma Shri and the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award.
How Weightlifting Is Scored
Weightlifting has two lifts. First comes the snatch, where the bar goes overhead in one motion. Next comes the clean and jerk, done in two motions. Then, judges add the best of each lift. So, the athlete with the highest total wins.
India at Glasgow 2026
India finished fourth at Glasgow 2026 with 39 medals. Also, boxing gave India its biggest medal haul. However, organisers dropped several sports where India usually wins. Hence, India’s tally was lower than in earlier Games.
Why Mirabai Chanu Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, sports achievements often appear in current affairs questions. So, remember her event, weight class and her three straight golds. Also, revise her Olympic silver. For official updates, also visit the Sports Authority of India. Next, for a related story, read about India’s CWG 2026 campaign and Ahmedabad 2030.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.